The leader of the Scottish Conservatives, Russell Findlay, has called on the head of NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC) to disclose who exerted pressure to open the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital on time. The health board's closing submission to the Scottish Hospitals Inquiry stated the hospital was opened 'too early' and 'not ready', with 'pressure' applied to meet the deadline.
In a letter to chief executive Professor Jann Gardner, Mr Findlay demanded answers, saying patients and families deserve to know who applied the pressure and why the hospital opened before it was ready, putting lives at risk. He asked whether any ministers or government officials pressured the board, who they were, and what consideration was given to the pressure.
Mr Findlay also questioned whether the health board set the 2015 opening date and when the government was informed of suspected water system contamination. The Scottish Government and former first minister Nicola Sturgeon have faced criticism, with opposition figures suggesting the push came from ministers.
First Minister John Swinney rejected accusations of government pressure on Thursday, stating he has confidence in the inquiry chaired by Lord Brodie. He committed to releasing relevant documents to the public, subject to redactions for personal information and legal privilege.
NHSGGC has been contacted for comment but has not yet responded.
